Ever popped a Percocet for that nagging backache? You’re not alone. Millions reach for this popular painkiller, but there’s more to the story than just sweet relief. While Percocet can work wonders for acute pain, it comes with a dark side that’s often swept under the rug. From constipation to full-blown addiction, the side effects of this powerful opioid are no joke.
Together, let’s embrace the journey to recovery and the promise of a new beginning. Call us at (833) 949-1347today or reach out online.
What is Percocet used for?
Common Medical Uses
You’ve likely heard of Percocet before – it’s one of the most commonly prescribed opioid painkillers. Doctors often recommend Percocet to help manage moderate to severe pain, such as after surgery, injury, or for chronic conditions like cancer or arthritis.
The medication contains oxycodone (an opioid) and acetaminophen. Oxycodone binds to opioid receptors in the brain and body to block pain signals from reaching the brain. Acetaminophen enhances oxycodone’s effects as a less potent pain reliever.
Relieving but Risky
While effective for pain relief when used as directed, Percocet unfortunately carries a high risk of dependence and addiction. Like other opioid drugs, it produces euphoric effects by flooding the brain’s reward system with dopamine.
This makes it extremely difficult to stop using once your body becomes accustomed to and dependent on the drug. Tolerance builds quickly, requiring higher doses to achieve the same pain relief over time.
Addiction Dangers
Continuing to increase your dosage or using Percocet recreationally without a prescription drastically increases the risks of overdose, respiratory depression, and death. Many who become addicted start off taking it as prescribed, only to find themselves spiraling into misuse and dependence.
While intended for legitimate pain management needs, the unfortunate reality is Percocet’s potency and potential for addiction make it a commonly abused opioid. Understanding these risks is crucial if you are prescribed this powerful medication.
What are the side effects of oxycodone?
Common Side Effects
Oxycodone, the active ingredient in Percocet, is a powerful opioid painkiller that can lead to some unpleasant side effects. The most common include nausea, vomiting, constipation, dizziness, and drowsiness. According to Evoke Wellness at Hilliard, developing tolerance – needing higher doses to get the same effect – is also a big red flag.
Signs of Addiction
But the real dangers emerge when you misuse oxycodone or take it for longer than prescribed. This dramatically increases the risk of dependence and addiction. Warning signs include intense cravings, withdrawal symptoms, taking higher doses than directed, and neglecting responsibilities due to drug use.
Mental Health Risks
In addition to the physical risks, oxycodone abuse can seriously mess with your mental health. Depression, anxiety, and paranoia are all potential side effects. The drug can also trigger psychosis in some people, causing delusions and hallucinations that feel very real.
Overdose Dangers
Perhaps most concerning of all are the overdose risks associated with oxycodone. Excessive doses can lead to dangerously slowed breathing and loss of consciousness – which can be fatal without immediate medical treatment. Mixing oxycodone with alcohol or other depressants increases these life-threatening overdose dangers.
Is Percocet stronger than hydrocodone?
The Opioid Powerhouses
Percocet and hydrocodone are both potent opioid painkillers. But which one packs a bigger punch? The answer lies in their key ingredients.
Hydrocodone is the active opioid in medications like Vicodin and Norco. As explained on evokewellnessoh.com, it binds to receptors in the brain to block pain signals and induce feelings of euphoria.
Oxy vs Hydro
Percocet, on the other hand, contains oxycodone – a slightly stronger opioid than hydrocodone. That extra kick makes Percocet more potent and potentially more addictive.
Both drugs carry major risks of tolerance, dependence and respiratory depression when misused. Oxycodone’s increased strength means Percocet has an even higher potential for overdose.
A Slippery Slope
What may start as legitimate pain treatment can quickly spiral into opioid addiction. Tolerance builds rapidly, requiring higher doses to achieve the same effects. Before you know it, you’re trapped in a dangerous cycle that’s extremely difficult to break free from.
The key is being informed about the very real risks of these medications, even when taken as prescribed. With proper education and support, you can avoid falling into the grips of opioid addiction.
Long-term side effects of Percocet
Physical Dependence & Tolerance
Taking Percocet regularly, even as prescribed, can lead to physical dependence over time. Your body adapts to the drug’s effects, requiring higher doses to achieve the same pain relief. This is known as tolerance. Once dependent, stopping suddenly causes unpleasant withdrawal symptoms like nausea, muscle cramps and anxiety.
Addiction & Compulsive Use
Beyond dependence, the opioid oxycodone in Percocet produces euphoric highs that can spiral into addiction. You may find yourself compulsively seeking and using the drug despite negative impacts on your life. Opioid addiction is considered a brain disease that’s extremely difficult to overcome alone.
Health & Life Impacts
With prolonged Percocet abuse, the risks multiply. Respiratory depression can dangerously slow your breathing. Constipation and nausea are common side effects. Your mental abilities and basic functioning become impaired. Overdose is a constant risk as your tolerance increases. Addiction often destroys relationships, jobs and financial stability too.
Whether under a doctor’s care or not, be vigilant about any Percocet use extending past a few weeks. The drug’s effectiveness wanes while the odds of dependence and serious harm only grow over time. Seek help from an opioid addiction treatment program to break free safely.
Risk of addiction and dependence
A dangerous spiral
Percocet is highly addictive, making it easy to develop dependence without realizing it. Its potent opioid formula provides effective pain relief but also triggers euphoric highs – an effect that can quickly spiral into abuse. Taking higher doses than prescribed or “doctor shopping” for multiple scripts are telltale signs of opioid misuse.
A nationwide crisis
Tragically, opioid addiction has devastated communities across America. Overdoses spiked after illicit drugs like fentanyl started getting mixed into street supplies, making each dose a potential death sentence. Ohio remains one of the hardest-hit states in this ongoing epidemic.
Breaking free
The path to recovery starts with comprehensive treatment combining medically-assisted detox, counseling, and lifestyle changes. Medications like Suboxone help curb cravings during withdrawal while behavioral therapies address the root causes. Residential rehab programs provide a supportive environment to build coping skills for lasting sobriety.
Getting help for Percocet addiction
Signs you need help
As Percocet is an opioid painkiller, it can be highly addictive if misused. Recognizing the warning signs is crucial to getting timely help. Some red flags include taking higher doses than prescribed, experiencing intense cravings, developing a tolerance, having withdrawal symptoms when trying to quit, and neglecting responsibilities due to drug use.
Benefits of treatment
Seeking professional treatment has numerous benefits. It provides a safe, supportive environment to overcome dependence with evidence-based approaches. You’ll gain access to medication-assisted treatment like Suboxone to ease cravings and withdrawal. Counseling helps identify triggers and develop coping mechanisms. Overall, rehab improves your physical and mental health while equipping you with skills for lasting sobriety.
Treatment options
A comprehensive Percocet addiction treatment program typically starts with medically-supervised detox to manage withdrawal symptoms. This is followed by an inpatient or outpatient program tailored to your needs. Residential treatment allows you to reside at the facility and focus solely on recovery through individual/group therapy, educational sessions, and building a strong support system.
Outpatient programs offer more flexibility while still providing structured treatment. Medication-assisted treatment like Suboxone or Vivitrol can be combined with counseling for a well-rounded approach.
Getting started
The first step is understanding you need help. Contact Evoke Wellness to get assessed and learn about affordable treatment options covered by insurance. Their compassionate staff will guide you towards overcoming Percocet addiction and regaining control of your life.
Opioid Addiction Treatment Program
Finding freedom from opioid addiction is a journey, but you’re not alone. At Evoke Wellness, our comprehensive opioid addiction treatment program provides a supportive path to lasting recovery.
A Holistic Approach
Our program combines medication-assisted treatment with evidence-based therapies. We offer options like Vivitrol, Suboxone, and Methadone to ease withdrawal symptoms and cravings. But medication is just one part.
Behavioral therapies are key, including:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
- Family counseling
- Group support
- Individual therapy
Personalized Care
One size doesn’t fit all when it comes to recovery. That’s why we create individualized treatment plans tailored to your needs. Our levels of care range from:
- Medical detox
- Residential treatment
- Intensive outpatient
We meet you where you are and provide the right support.
Lifelong Recovery
Addiction is a chronic disease, but it can be effectively managed. Our program teaches vital relapse prevention strategies so you can maintain sobriety long-term. We’ll also connect you with community resources for ongoing support after leaving our facility.
The path ahead won’t be easy, but we’ll walk it with you every step of the way. Reach out today to start your journey toward healing.
Begin Your Journey with Evoke Wellness at Hilliard
If you or a loved one is considering treatment, Evoke Wellness at Hilliard invites you to contact us. Our compassionate team is ready to answer your questions, discuss your needs, and help you take the first steps toward recovery. In Hilliard, you’ll find more than just a treatment program – you’ll discover a community dedicated to your wellness and success. Together, let’s embrace the journey to recovery and the promise of a new beginning. Call us at (833) 949-1347 today or reach out online.
